By Edwin Mauluka
Newly appointed Minister of Transport and Public Works Feston Kaupa has vowed to root out corruption and ensure that government projects meet quality standards to support Malawi’s development goals.
Speaking after taking his oath of office in Lilongwe, Kaupa said his ministry will uphold transparency and accountability in all its operations. His remarks followed a stern warning from President Peter Mutharika, who cautioned cabinet ministers against corruption.
“No nation can prosper where corruption thrives,” Mutharika said. “Corruption weakens institutions, scares off investors, and erodes our moral fabric. I will not tolerate any form of corruption. We must root out this vice once and for all. As cabinet ministers, you must be exemplary and demonstrate financial prudence. Every tambala of public funds must deliver value for Malawians.”
The President also directed Attorney General and Chief Legal Advisor to Government Frank Mbeta to take a more proactive role in strengthening accountability.
“I urge you to review and tighten our legislative environment to close loopholes, promote transparency, and ensure that contracts and agreements protect the national interest,” Mutharika said.
Kaupa, who now heads a ministry responsible for major infrastructure works, including roads, hospitals, schools, and public buildings, acknowledged growing public concern over poor workmanship and inflated project costs.
“As a ministry, we will not allow corruption to permeate procurement or any stage of project implementation,” he said. “We will make sure all resources are used prudently to deliver high-quality work that Malawians can be proud of.”
He went on to say “we want to unlock rural areas. Constituencies will only develop if we build good road infrastructure in addition to air transport and water transport.”
The Ministry of Transport and Public Works has often been in the spotlight over cost overruns, delayed completion, and substandard construction. Kaupa’s commitment signals a renewed push by the Mutharika administration to improve oversight and restore public trust in government-funded projects.
According to Kaupa, he is ready to use the position to help president Mutharika fulfill his development vision outlined in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) manifesto.
He said the MWK 5billion Constituency Development Fund (CDF) will play a key role in assisting his ministry to bring meaningful development to every constituency in the country.
“In Public Works and Transport we want to unlock rural areas so that we develop the country. Constituencies will only develop if we build very good road infrastructure in addition to air transport, water transport.’’ he said adding that the ministry will also place emphasis in general infrastructure development such as buildings and schools.
